TAHLEQUAH, Okla. –
The Cherokee Nation is adding a new option to its justice system aimed at addressing the root causes of nonviolent crime. During Mental Health Awareness Month, Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. announced the launch of a Mental Health Treatment Court, designed to provide treatment and supervision instead of jail time for eligible offenders.
What is the Mental Health Treatment Court?
The Mental Health Treatment Court is a judicially supervised program designed for Cherokee Nation citizens whose involvement in the justice system is tied to mental health or substance use issues.
Instead of serving a traditional sentence, eligible nonviolent offenders may be placed into the treatment court, where they will receive structured mental health care while remaining under court supervision.
Hoskin says the program fills a gap in the justice system where incarceration alone often fails to address the underlying issues.
“They may end up being incarcerated, but they may not end up getting the sort of mental health treatment that is really at the root of their behavior,” Hoskin said.
How will the court work?
The court is funded through a $1 million federal grant and will operate as an alternative to traditional sentencing. Participants will go through evidence-based risk and needs assessments before entering a plea.
Once enrolled, participants must comply with treatment plans, attend regular court check-ins, and follow conditions set by the judge. The program includes graduated incentives and sanctions to encourage progress and accountability.
Hoskin emphasized that accountability remains central to the process.
“There’s accountability, but there’s also help,” he said.
Why was this court needed now?
Hoskin said the need for a Mental Health Treatment Court became more apparent as the Cherokee Nation’s criminal caseload increased following the McGirt decision.
As more cases moved through tribal courts, leaders found that many nonviolent offenders were struggling with untreated mental illness or substance use disorders.
Rather than repeatedly cycling people through jail, Hoskin said the Nation wanted a system that could address the root causes of criminal behavior.
How does culture play a role in treatment?
In addition to clinical care, the Mental Health Treatment Court will connect participants to culturally grounded support rooted in Cherokee traditions.
Hoskin said cultural connection can be a powerful part of healing, especially for citizens facing criminal charges and mental health challenges.
“Cherokee people have a hunger to connect with their own culture,” Hoskin said. “We think there are proven methods to bring cultural practices in and weave those into more conventional approaches.”
How does this court fit into existing programs?
The Mental Health Treatment Court builds on the Cherokee Nation’s existing justice initiatives, including the Veterans Treatment Court, Juvenile Healing to Wellness Court, and reentry programs.
Hoskin said all of these programs share a common goal: reducing repeat offenses while helping people become healthier, more stable members of their communities.
What impact do leaders hope this will have?
Tribal leaders say the long-term goal is to reduce repeat offenses, strengthen families, and improve public safety across the Cherokee Nation Reservation.
They also hope the program raises awareness about mental health resources available to citizens — potentially encouraging people to seek help before entering the justice system.